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This Mayo Parmesan Chicken is my secret weapon for turning a simple weeknight meal into something truly special. It takes plain chicken breasts and, with just a few pantry staples, transforms them into an incredibly juicy, flavorful main course with a golden, cheesy crust that everyone goes crazy for.
I first made this on a chaotic Tuesday when I realized I had no eggs for a traditional breading. This mayonnaise and cheese mixture was a last minute experiment, and it turned out to be the best mistake I've ever made in the kitchen.
Ingredients
- Four boneless skinless chicken breasts: these are your canvas so look for ones that are similar in size for even cooking
- Half a cup of mayonnaise: this is the magic ingredient that locks in moisture and creates a creamy base for the crust
- Half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese: for the best flavor and melt please use a block of Parmesan and grate it yourself the pre shredded kind has anti caking agents that affect the texture
- One teaspoon garlic powder: this adds a deep aromatic flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese
- Half a teaspoon onion powder: it provides a subtle savory sweetness that rounds out the seasoning blend
- Half a teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: a simple way to add a blend of classic herbs
- A quarter teaspoon each of salt and black pepper: essential for enhancing all the other flavors
- Half a cup of seasoned breadcrumbs: this is optional but adds a wonderful extra crunch to the crust
- Chopped fresh parsley: for a little touch of color and freshness at the end
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Chicken:
- First, get your oven preheating to a hot 425 degrees Fahrenheit. While it heats up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper for the easiest cleanup imaginable. Now, for the most crucial step, take your chicken breasts and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Seriously, don't skip this. A dry surface is what helps that delicious coating stick and get beautifully golden. If your chicken breasts are a bit on the thick side, I recommend pounding them to an even three quarter inch thickness so they cook through at the same time.
- Mix the Magic Topping:
- In a medium sized bowl, combine the mayonnaise, that freshly grated Parmesan cheese, the garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Give it a really good stir with a spatula or spoon until everything is thoroughly combined into a thick, creamy paste. You should be able to smell all those wonderful seasonings coming together.
- Coat the Chicken:
- Place your dry chicken breasts onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one. Spoon the mayo Parmesan mixture onto each chicken breast and use the back of the spoon or a small spatula to spread it evenly over the entire top surface. Be generous here, you want a nice thick layer that will turn into a crust.
- Add the Crunch and Bake:
- If you're using the breadcrumbs for that extra texture, now is the time to sprinkle them evenly over the mayo Parmesan coating. Gently press them down with your fingers just a little to help them adhere. Slide the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. The chicken is done when the internal temperature hits 165 degrees Fahrenheit on a meat thermometer and the topping is bubbly and a beautiful golden brown.
- Rest and Serve:
- Once you pull the chicken out of the oven, resist the urge to cut into it right away. Let it rest on the pan for about five minutes. This little bit of patience allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring every single bite is as juicy as possible. After resting, garnish with some fresh parsley if you like and serve it up.
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The freshly grated Parmesan is absolutely my favorite part of this recipe. It reminds me of watching my dad grate a huge wedge of it for our Sunday pasta dinners. That sharp, nutty, salty flavor is pure comfort to me, and it’s what gives this chicken its signature restaurant quality taste.
Serving Suggestions
This chicken is so versatile it pairs well with almost anything. For a classic dinner, I love to serve it with a side of garlic mashed potatoes and some simple steamed green beans or roasted asparagus. If you want something lighter, it's fantastic alongside a crisp garden salad with a simple vinaigrette. The richness of the chicken is a perfect match for a fresh, acidic side.
Ingredient Substitutions
While the classic recipe is perfect as is, you can definitely make a few swaps. If you're not a fan of mayonnaise, you can substitute an equal amount of full fat Greek yogurt, but be aware the browning won't be quite as deep and the flavor will be a bit tangier. You can also play with the seasonings. A pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper can add a nice smoky heat. For a gluten free version, simply omit the breadcrumbs or use your favorite gluten free variety.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The biggest challenge with reheating is keeping the crust from getting soggy. The microwave is not your friend here. For the best results, I highly recommend reheating the chicken in an air fryer at 375 degrees for about 3 to 5 minutes, or in a conventional oven at 400 degrees for about 10 minutes, until it's warmed through and the crust is crispy again.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What's the best way to ensure the chicken stays moist?
Patting the chicken dry before coating helps the mayo-Parmesan mixture adhere properly and seals in moisture during baking. Also, avoid overcooking; use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- → Can I use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese?
Freshly grated Parmesan is highly recommended for the best flavor and melting. Pre-shredded cheese often contains cellulose, which can hinder its melting ability.
- → Is there a substitute for mayonnaise?
While mayonnaise provides a unique creaminess and flavor, Greek yogurt can be substituted for half the mayonnaise for a lighter version. Be aware that the texture and browning might be slightly different.
- → How can I add more flavor to the chicken?
Marinating the chicken in the mayo-Parmesan mixture for 30 minutes or longer enhances the flavor. Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as smoked paprika or cayenne pepper, to customize the taste.
- → What are some good side dish options?
This chicken pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, or a simple salad. Consider asparagus, broccoli, or green beans for a healthy option.
- → Can this be made ahead of time?
You can prepare the mayo-Parmesan mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. It's best to coat the chicken just before baking for optimal results.